Indiana University-Bloomington Top Questions

What should every freshman at Indiana University-Bloomington know before they start?

Breanna

Dear Future College Students (and Parents), Deciding what college you want to attend after high school can be a tough decision, so it's best to make sure you are making your choice for yourself and no one else. I know it is tempting to the school that all of your high school friends are at, but that is not always the best bet. So much personal growth can happen at a college where you don't have your whole high school judging and influencing you. If you do go to a college with most of your friends, be sure to make room in your social schedule to make new friends, so that you are not in the same clique for another 4 years. Also be sure to pick a school that you feel fits you and your interests. If you feel accepted there, you are more likely to get the most out of your college years. When you finally choose and start your classes -- make sure to actually go to class and pay attention! Skipping class is a waste of money, and it's hard to do well when you are not present to learn. Sincerely, Breanna Weidner

Justin

Drink often, bang lots. College only happens once and you'll be broke and jobless afterwards regardless of what you do.

Maryn

Any college can be the right choice for you, as long as you are always open-minded and motivated! With these two qualities you can make the most of any academic setting and meet a variety of people!

Elizabeth

Finding the right college is an important task for both parents and students. There are many important factors that need to be considered by both parties. Especially in a time of economic hardship, in-state vs. out-of-state is probably one of the first decisions that should be made. Once this has been decided, the student needs to consider whether they would feel more comfortable at a small school or if they're looking for the full out Big-Ten experience. Upon narrowing the choices down with these preliminary decisions, the most important factor should be the academic quality of the school, more specifically the department of the school that the student wishes to major in. After deciding upon a few schools that both the parents and student are happy with, visits should be made to each campus. From here it is simply a matter of which school has the most to offer both the parents and the student and which campus feels the most comfortable for the student. College is a very important part of a person's life and the process of choosing the right one should not be rushed.

Megan

Go where ou want to go and where you can see yourself spending your undergraduate and maybe graduate years. Because if you do not feel it is the right place for you, then you are usually right. Go with your gut. Don't let other people pressure you into it. Your parents aren't going to college. You are. So you need to make your own decisions. Starting now.

Laura

As a senior at a Big Ten out-of-state school I have lots of advise to give to parents and future freshmen, and 200 words is not nearly enough to share my experinces and hesitations. My first piece of advise is to visit as many schools as you can. Take advantage of talking to advisors while you're there (students and parents), and definately take a tour of the campus if they offer them, preferably given by a student because I feel they can connect with potential freshmen better than anyone. Look into what clubs or organizations the school has, and find something that excites you. My passion my whole life was ballet, and IU offered so many ways to incorperate my dancing along with my education, that I knew I would feel comfortable attending this school whether it was to dance, or to find a completely new career. College is a huge transition, so being able to fit your passion into your new life keeps you grounded when you're feeling overwhelmed in an unfamiliar environment. Finally, don't regret it if you can't afford it, there are people there to help you.

Bryan

To make the most of the college experience, it's important to find a University you feel comfortable at. Visit Universities and meet the people there. Look into the activities that the school has to offer along with the types of classes. Sit in on classes when it's exceptable, and talk to professors. Once you choose you school become active in something. It's important to make the effort to meet as many new people as possible, and be open to new ideas. Go to class, and work hard. Remeber you're there for an education.

Molly

Narrow the college search first by deciding whether or not you want to attend a large school or small school. From there i would suggest taking as many tours as possible. In order to get the full feel for the college i find it imperative to visit the school at least twice. The tours would be even more beneficial if the prospective student knew a current student at that school, because a more personal tour makes the learning experience better. As for making the most of your college experience i would suggest to get out there and be active in the community. Become part of a team or engage in a group that fits your interests. It's one of the best ways of meeting genuine friends that last a lifetime. I also find it helps shape you into a better, more ambitious person in general.

Timothy

First of all to find the right college for the student, you have to look at what colleges offer your degree of interest. I would then suggest a school that fits your lifestyle suggesting, small school with closer more involved classes, or a big school with lecture halls. For me being involved in the community and organization helped me in organizing my life and be able to manage time. Another thing to consider for an incoming freshman, it is never to early to gain more resume experience. Also to ensure that you have the best chances of getting a job after college make sure that you get involved and know your teachers , because later in your college career you will need letters of recommendation. Finally once you know what school you want to attend and what organizations you want to be in, you absolutely must attend class.

Courtney

To start off the college search, I would begin to think about the area where you would like to go to school. Think about how far away you want to be from home, taking into consideration transportation for breaks and holidays. Also think about if you would want to go school in a big city or small town. You should definitely visit the schools you are thinking about applying to. Obviously you will have to think about price and what you can afford. Once you choose your school you should start researching campus life and what activities you want to get involved with right away. Getting involved right away will make you feel more at home when you get to school. It is also a great way to meet new people and make friends. The more people you meet at campus the better you will like the school. You will have a better college experience if you make sure you keep on top at your work. Know when to play and know when to stay in a night to get caught up.